Liverpool paid heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva during their opening pre-season friendly at Preston, marking the club's first match since the pair died in a car accident in Spain on 3 July.
The 28-year-old forward and his 25-year-old brother lost their lives in the tragic incident, prompting an outpouring of grief from the football community.
Manager Arne Slot's side took to the pitch at Deepdale for their first fixture since the devastating loss, with numerous tributes organised to honour the memory of Jota - who had become a beloved figure at Anfield during his four years with the club.
The matchday programme featured a poignant black and white image of Jota holding the Premier League trophy on its cover. Merchandise stalls around the ground sold scarves and flags bearing the forward's name.
Liverpool paid heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva during their opening pre-season friendly at Preston, marking the club's first match since the pair died in a car accident in Spain on 3 July
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Before kick-off, You'll Never Walk Alone echoed through Deepdale as players from both teams wore black armbands. Wreaths were placed in front of the away end whilst digital tributes appeared on screens throughout the stadium.
A minute's silence was observed before the match commenced, with fans and players alike paying their respects.
The club confirmed earlier this week that Jota's number 20 shirt has been permanently retired in honour of the player who wore it throughout his time at Anfield.
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Liverpool fans were emotional as they paid tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva
PA
In an interview before the match, Slot spoke about the club's enduring connection to Jota.
"We will always carry him with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go," the Liverpool manager told the club's official website.
"Maybe especially in difficult moments because of what I just said. But in any moment we are here, we will carry him with us in our thoughts and in our hearts."
Slot explained the decision to retire Jota's shirt, stating: "To retire his shirt is the one thing we could, should and have done."
The Dutch manager also suggested that Liverpool would draw inspiration from Jota's memory in their future endeavours.
"Nothing seems to be important if we think of what has happened," he said.
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"But we are a football club and we need to train and we need to play again, if we want it or not."
The manager encouraged players to honour Jota by being authentic in their emotions.
Diogo Jota helped Liverpool win the Premier League title last season before his tragic death at the age of 28
PA"Jota was always himself, it didn't matter if he was talking to me, to his teammates, to the staff, he was always himself," Slot explained. "So let us try to be ourselves as well."
Jota made 182 appearances for Liverpool after joining from Wolves in 2020, scoring 65 goals and providing 26 assists. He won the Premier League, FA Cup and two League Cups during his time at the club.